Quartz countertops are a popular choice for homeowners looking for a low-maintenance and stylish option for their kitchen or bathroom. However, like any countertop material, they can still be susceptible to stains. In this post, we’ll discuss how to get stains out of quartz countertops using safe and effective methods to keep your countertops looking their best.
What Removes Stains from Quartz Countertops?
Food and beverage spills are among the most common causes of staining on quartz countertops. For these types of stains, cleaning up the spill as soon as possible is essential. You should use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and mild detergent to wipe up the spill. If the stain is particularly stubborn, you can use a non-abrasive cleaner designed explicitly for quartz countertops.
Another common cause of stains on quartz countertops is exposure to oils and grease. These types of stains can be more challenging to remove than food or beverage spills. You can apply the degreaser to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off with a soft cloth or sponge. If the stain is still visible, you can repeat the process until it’s entirely removed.
In addition to food and beverage spills and oil stains, other substances can also cause stains on quartz countertops, including ink, makeup, and wine. To remove these types of stains, you should use a specialized cleaner designed to target the specific stain. You can find these cleaners online or at your local home improvement store.
Steps to Get Stains out of Quartz Countertops
Removing stains from your quartz slab requires specific techniques and materials, whether it’s a water stain, coffee spill, or stubborn stain from harsh cleaners. Here’s how to get stains out of quartz:
- Before you start cleaning your quartz countertop, it’s crucial to identify the type of stain you’re dealing with. Different stains require different cleaning methods and materials. Once you know the kind of stain, choose the appropriate stain remover. Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage your quartz countertop. Instead, use a quartz countertop cleaner or a mild water and dish soap solution. If you’re dealing with a stubborn stain, consider using a specialized stain remover or a barkeeper’s friend.
- Apply the stain remover to the stained area of your countertop. If you’re using a quartz cleaner, follow the instructions carefully. If you’re using a homemade solution, apply it with a soft cloth and rub it gently. For stubborn stains, let the cleaner sit for a few minutes before scrubbing the area with a soft-bristled brush. Avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool or scouring pads, as these can scratch the surface of your countertop.
- After you’ve applied the stain remover:
- Rinse the countertop thoroughly with clean water.
- Remove all traces of the cleaner to avoid any damage to your quartz countertop.
- Once you’ve rinsed your quartz countertop, dry it with a soft cloth or towel.
Does Baking Soda Remove Stains from Quartz?
For mild stains, baking soda can be an effective cleaning solution. To use baking soda on your quartz countertop:
- Mix it with water to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Use a soft-bristled brush and apply gentle pressure to scrub the stain.
- Rinse the countertop with water and dry it with a soft cloth.
- When using baking soda on your quartz countertop, use it sparingly.
Excessive use of baking soda can scratch or damage the countertop’s surface.
While baking soda can be effective for mild stains, it’s not recommended for stubborn stains on your quartz countertop. Harsh or abrasive cleaners should be avoided as they can damage the countertop’s surface. Instead, consider using a specialized quartz cleaner or a stain remover designed explicitly for quartz countertops.
What Stains Easier: Quartz or Marble?
Quartz is an engineered stone composed of natural quartz crystals and resin. It is non-porous, meaning it does not absorb liquids, making it highly resistant to stains. This makes it a popular choice for kitchen quartz countertops. While quartz is not entirely impervious to stains, it is much less likely to stain than marble.
Marble is a porous natural stone, meaning it can absorb liquids. This makes it more prone to staining than quartz. Marble is particularly susceptible to acidic substances such as lemon juice or vinegar, which can etch the countertop’s surface and cause permanent damage.
While quartz is more stain-resistant than marble, both materials require proper maintenance to maintain their appearance. It’s essential to wipe up spills immediately and avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials on the countertop’s surface. Mild dish soap and water are usually sufficient for regular cleaning.
Why is My Quartz Countertop Staining?
Quartz countertops are a popular choice for their durability and stain-resistant properties. However, if you have noticed stains on your white quartz countertops, you may wonder why this is happening. Here are some of the common causes of stains on quartz countertops:
· Exposure to Harsh Chemicals
While quartz is highly resistant to stains, exposure to harsh chemicals can cause damage to the surface of the countertop, leading to staining. Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials on your quartz countertop, as this can scratch the surface and cause it to lose its shine.
· Hard Water Stains
Hard water can leave mineral deposits on your countertop, causing unsightly stains. To prevent hard water stains, wipe down your quartz countertop after each use and avoid letting water sit on the surface for an extended period.
· Spills and Stains
Quartz countertops can still stain if spills are not wiped up promptly. Stains can be caused by food and beverage spills, oils, and other liquids left on the countertop for an extended period. To prevent staining, wipe up spills as soon as they happen.
· Damage to the Surface
Quartz countertops can become scratched or damaged over time, which can cause staining. If you notice scratches or damage to the surface of your countertop, it’s essential to have it repaired to prevent further damage and staining.
Can You Use a Magic Eraser on Quartz?
Magic erasers are popular cleaning tools that can remove stubborn stains and grime from various surfaces. While magic erasers can effectively remove stains, they are not recommended for use on quartz countertops. The magic eraser’s abrasive nature can scratch the countertop’s surface, causing damage and dulling the shine.
Instead of using a magic eraser, it’s best to stick to mild cleaning methods when cleaning your quartz countertop. Use a soft cloth or sponge and a gentle cleaner specifically designed for quartz countertops, such as a quartz cleaner or a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap.
If you have stubborn stains on your quartz countertop, you can use a stain remover specifically designed for quartz countertops. Alternatively, you can create a paste using baking soda and water and gently scrub the stain with a soft cloth.
What should You not Use on Quartz?
- Avoid using harsh cleaners that contain bleach, ammonia, or other abrasive chemicals on your quartz countertop. These cleaners can scratch the surface and cause damage to the finish.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads on your quartz countertop. These cleaners can cause scratches and dull the surface of the countertop.
- Avoid using acidic cleaners on your quartz countertop, such as vinegar or lemon juice. These cleaners can etch the surface of the countertop and cause damage.
- Do not use metal scouring pads or steel wool on your quartz countertop. These abrasive materials can scratch the surface and cause permanent damage.
- While quartz is heat-resistant, it’s essential to avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on the surface of the countertop. Use trivets or hot pads to protect the surface from heat damage.
How Do You Get Rust Stains out of Quartz Countertops?
- Try using a stain remover specifically designed for quartz countertops. Apply the remover directly to the rust stain and let it sit for the recommended time. Then, wipe away the stain remover with a soft cloth.
- Mix baking soda and water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the rust stain and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Then, use a soft cloth to scrub the stain away gently.
- Dampen a soft cloth with rubbing alcohol and gently rub the rust stain. Rinse the area with warm water and dry with a soft cloth.
- lar Keeper’s Friend is a popular cleaning product used on various surfaces, including quartz countertops. Apply a small amount of Bar Keeper’s Friend to the rust stain and gently scrub the stain away with a soft cloth.
Conclusion
In summary, removing stains from quartz surfaces is a relatively easy process; however, it requires using the proper techniques and products. Following the tips outlined in this guide and testing cleaning solutions on a small area first, you can keep your quartz looking clean and new. With a bit of patience and persistence, you can effectively remove stains and restore the shine to your quartz surfaces for years to come.
Photo by Alona Gross on Unsplash
